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A visual timeline with the key dates for applying to OPT. (Yasmin Lopes\/Staff Writer)<\/p>\nOn Saturday, Feb. 7, international students at TCU can begin applying for Optional Practical Training. OPT is a form of work authorization that allows students on F-1 visas to gain professional experience in the U.S. after graduation.<\/p>\n
Eligible students can work for up to 12 months in a job related to their field of study, making OPT a key step for those hoping to stay and build their careers in the U.S. Before applying, students must meet specific eligibility requirements.<\/p>\n
At a workshop hosted by TCU International Services on Feb. 4, assistant director Eunah Bang explained that students must maintain valid F-1 status to apply.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s the very first thing students should confirm before starting the application,\u201d Bang said.<\/p>\n
A visual timeline with the key dates for applying to OPT. (Yasmin Lopes\/Staff Writer)<\/p>\n
Timing is one of the most critical aspects of the OPT application process. Students may apply up to 90 days before their program completion date and up to 60 days after.<\/p>\n
Waiting too long can reduce the amount of time students are allowed to work.<\/p>\n
\u201cStudents who apply after their program completion date may not receive the full 12 months of OPT,\u201d Bang said. \u201cThat\u2019s why we encourage students to plan early.\u201d<\/p>\n
Once a student decides to apply, the process involves multiple institutions. Applications are ultimately reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the federal agency responsible for immigration and work authorization in the United States.<\/p>\n
Students cannot apply directly to USCIS without first going through their university.<\/p>\n
International students must receive a recommendation from a Designated School Official (DSO) in International Services. That recommendation is issued through an updated I-20 form, which officially authorizes the student to apply for OPT.<\/p>\n
\u201cDo not make the mistake of applying with USCIS without first obtaining your OPT-recommended I-20,\u201d Bang said. \u201cUSCIS must receive your application within 30 days of the DSO\u2019s recommendation or before the end of your 60-day grace period, whichever comes first.\u201d<\/p>\n
After receiving the OPT-recommended I-20, students submit Form I-765, the official application for employment authorization, along with several supporting documents. These include copies of all previously issued I-20s with CPT or OPT authorizations signed in blue ink, the most recent I-94 arrival record, a valid passport and an F-1 visa.<\/p>\n
The OPT application is submitted online through USCIS and currently requires a $470 filing fee.<\/p>\n
Although the online system allows students to submit an application even if documents are missing, Bang warned that incomplete applications can lead to delays or denials.<\/p>\n
\u201cJust because the system allows you to submit doesn\u2019t mean your application is complete,\u201d she said. \u201cThat\u2019s why we strongly recommend using our OPT online application guide and attending workshops.\u201d<\/p>\n